1 Kings 10:5

KJV

And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the meat {H3978} of his table {H7979}, and the sitting {H4186} of his servants {H5650}, and the attendance {H4612} of his ministers {H8334}, and their apparel {H4403}, and his cupbearers {H8248}, and his ascent {H5930} by which he went up {H5927} unto the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}; there was no more spirit {H7307} in her.

Complete Jewish Bible

the food at his table, the manner of seating his officials, the manner in which his staff served him, how they were dressed, his personal servants and his burnt offering which he offered in the house of ADONAI, it left her breathless.

Berean Standard Bible

the food at his table, the seating of his servants, the service and attire of his attendants and cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he presented at the house of the LORD, it took her breath away.

American Standard Version

and the food of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of Jehovah; there was no more spirit in her.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 10:5 vividly captures the Queen of Sheba's profound astonishment upon witnessing the unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and meticulously ordered kingdom of King Solomon. After observing the magnificence of his court, the abundance of his provisions, the disciplined service of his staff, and his reverent procession to the House of the LORD, she was utterly overcome, experiencing a moment of breathtaking awe so intense that "there was no more spirit in her." This verse marks the climax of her encounter, signifying that the reality of Solomon's glory far surpassed all the rumors she had heard.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic moment in the narrative of the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon, detailed in [1 Kings 10:1-13](/1_kings/10 "1 Kings 10 - The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon") and paralleled in [2 Chronicles 9:1-12](/2_chronicles/9 "2 Chronicles 9 - The Queen of Sheba's Visit"). The preceding verses ([1 Kings 10:1-4](/1_kings/10 "1 Kings 10:1-4 - Queen of Sheba Tests Solomon")) describe her arrival from a distant land with a vast retinue and precious gifts, her intention to test Solomon with "hard questions," and her subsequent amazement as Solomon answered every query, leaving nothing hidden from him. Verse 5 then shifts from her intellectual satisfaction to her sensory and emotional overwhelm, listing the specific elements of Solomon's kingdom that left her breathless. This account serves as a powerful testament to the fulfillment of God's promises to Solomon regarding wisdom and wealth, marking the zenith of Israel's golden age.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Queen of Sheba likely hailed from the ancient kingdom of Saba, located in modern-day Yemen or Ethiopia, a region renowned for its rich trade in spices, gold, and precious stones. Her journey to Jerusalem would have been arduous and significant, undertaken by a monarch seeking not conquest or alliance, but wisdom and knowledge. In the ancient Near East, kings were often seen as embodiments of their nation's prosperity and divine favor, and wisdom was highly prized as a mark of divine blessing and effective governance. Solomon's fame had spread far and wide, likely through trade routes that connected Israel with distant lands. The detailed description of his court—from the "meat of his table" (indicating lavish provisions and hospitality) to the "attendance of his ministers" (reflecting efficient administration) and "his cupbearers" (a position of trust and honor)—underscores the sophisticated and orderly nature of his kingdom, a stark contrast to the often tumultuous political landscapes of the time.

* **Key Themes:** The Queen's reaction in [1 Kings 10:5](/1_kings/10-5 "1 Kings 10:5 - Queen of Sheba Overwhelmed") powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent in the book of [1 Kings](/1_kings "The Book of First Kings"). Firstly, it highlights the **overwhelming magnificence and divine blessing** bestowed upon Solomon, a direct fulfillment of God's promise in [1 Kings 3:12-13](/1_kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:12-13 - God Grants Solomon Wisdom and Riches") for unparalleled wisdom and riches. Secondly, the detailed enumeration of what impressed the Queen—from the material splendor to the orderly administration and the king's reverent approach to the Temple—underscores the theme of **Solomon's wisdom as the foundation of his prosperity and glory**. His ability to manage such a vast and complex kingdom with such precision was a direct manifestation of the divine wisdom granted to him. Lastly, the inclusion of "his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD" is crucial, emphasizing that the **spiritual dimension and Solomon's devotion to God's house** were integral to his awe-inspiring glory, indicating that his earthly kingdom was a reflection of divine order and presence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Spirit (Hebrew, _ruach_):** The Hebrew word רוּחַ (_ruach_) is rich in meaning, encompassing "wind," "breath," and "spirit." In this context, the phrase "there was no more _ruach_ in her" (אֵין עוֹד רוּחַ בָּהּ) is an idiomatic expression signifying that the Queen was utterly breathless, overwhelmed, or astounded to the point of collapse or utter stupefaction. It conveys a profound physical and emotional reaction, indicating that the reality of Solomon's splendor was so far beyond her imagination that it literally took her breath away, leaving her speechless and inert. It's a vivid depiction of being completely overcome by astonishment and wonder.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the meat of his table":** This refers to the lavishness and abundance of Solomon's provisions, not just for himself but for his entire court. It speaks of the wealth, generosity, and the meticulous organization required to feed such a large establishment, symbolizing prosperity and a well-managed household.
* **"and the sitting of his servants":** This highlights the orderly and disciplined arrangement of his personal staff. It implies a hierarchy, decorum, and efficiency that spoke volumes about Solomon's administrative prowess and the respect commanded by his presence.
* **"and the attendance of his ministers":** This refers to the diligent and precise service of his high-ranking officials and governmental administrators. It indicates a well-structured government, where every functionary knew their role and performed it with excellence, reflecting Solomon's wisdom in delegation and oversight.
* **"and their apparel":** The clothing worn by Solomon's servants and ministers would have been of fine quality, perhaps adorned with specific insignia, signifying their status and the king's wealth. This detail speaks to the overall splendor, dignity, and attention to detail that permeated Solomon's court.
* **"and his cupbearers":** Cupbearers were highly trusted officials, often responsible for the king's safety and privy to intimate court matters. Their presence and manner of service would have further underscored the king's security, his refined court, and the level of trust he placed in his inner circle.
* **"and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD":** This specific detail is profoundly significant. It refers to the grand procession, perhaps a ramp or staircase, by which Solomon would ascend to the Temple for worship or sacrifice. This highlights not just the architectural marvel of the Temple itself, but Solomon's personal piety and the integration of spiritual life into the very fabric of his kingdom's display. It indicates that the Queen was impressed not only by material wealth but by the king's reverent devotion to God.
* **"there was no more spirit in her":** This is the culmination of her observations, the ultimate expression of her astonishment. As analyzed above, it means she was utterly breathless, completely overwhelmed, and speechless by the sheer magnitude and perfection of what she witnessed. Her expectations, however grand, were utterly surpassed by the reality.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices to convey the Queen's profound reaction. **Enumeration** is prominently used, as the text lists specific aspects of Solomon's kingdom that impressed her: his table, servants, ministers, apparel, cupbearers, and his ascent to the Temple. This detailed listing builds a cumulative effect, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of Solomon's glory and the comprehensive scope of the Queen's observations. The phrase "there was no more spirit in her" is a vivid example of **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis. It's not meant literally to imply she died or lost consciousness, but rather to dramatically convey the intensity of her astonishment and the degree to which she was utterly overwhelmed. Furthermore, the entire scene functions as **Symbolism**, where Solomon's unparalleled glory, wisdom, and the order of his kingdom symbolize the tangible blessings and favor of God upon Israel, serving as a testament to the divine source of his wisdom and prosperity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Queen of Sheba's visit and her overwhelming reaction serve as a powerful testament to the visible manifestation of God's blessing and wisdom upon Solomon and, by extension, upon Israel. God had promised Solomon wisdom, riches, and honor beyond any king before or after him ([1 Kings 3:12-13](/1_kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:12-13 - God's Promise to Solomon")). The Queen's response confirms the fulfillment of this divine promise, demonstrating that God's favor can result in a glory so profound it leaves even a powerful foreign monarch breathless. This account underscores that true wisdom, derived from God, leads not only to intellectual prowess but also to practical order, administrative excellence, and material abundance, all of which can draw outsiders to acknowledge the God of Israel. Solomon's kingdom, in its peak, was a tangible, awe-inspiring display of God's covenant faithfulness and the blessings that flow from seeking Him.

* [Deuteronomy 28:1-14](/deuteronomy/28-1 "Deuteronomy 28:1-14 - Blessings for Obedience")
* [Proverbs 3:13-16](/proverbs/3-13 "Proverbs 3:13-16 - The Blessings of Wisdom")
* [Isaiah 60:1-3](/isaiah/60-1 "Isaiah 60:1-3 - The Future Glory of Zion")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Queen of Sheba's profound astonishment at Solomon's kingdom offers a compelling invitation for us to consider what truly leaves us breathless. Her awe was not merely for material wealth, but for the wisdom, order, and evident divine blessing that permeated every aspect of Solomon's reign, including his reverent approach to the House of the LORD. This challenges us to cultivate lives marked by God's wisdom, allowing His principles to order our homes, our work, and our relationships. When we live with integrity, diligence, and a clear devotion to God, our lives can become a compelling testimony, drawing others to inquire about the source of such peace and order, much like the Queen was drawn to Solomon. Our "ascent to the house of the LORD"—our commitment to worship, prayer, and spiritual disciplines—should be an integral part of the "splendor" that points beyond ourselves to the God who grants wisdom and blessing.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What aspects of God's character or work in your life have left you "breathless" with awe and wonder?**
* **How does the order and wisdom in your own life reflect God's presence, and how might it serve as a testimony to others?**
* **In what ways are you intentionally "ascending to the house of the LORD" (engaging in spiritual disciplines and worship) as a central part of your life's display?**
* **Are there areas where you need to seek God's wisdom more diligently, trusting that His ordering can bring forth a "splendor" that surpasses expectation?**

### FAQ

**What does "there was no more spirit in her" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "there was no more spirit in her" (Hebrew: אֵין עוֹד רוּחַ בָּהּ, _ein od ruach bah_) is a powerful idiom used to express extreme astonishment, overwhelm, or being utterly dumbfounded. It does not mean she literally died or lost consciousness, but rather that she was so profoundly amazed and awestruck that it figuratively "took her breath away." She was speechless, perhaps even momentarily paralyzed by the sheer magnitude and perfection of what she witnessed, indicating that the reality of Solomon's wisdom, wealth, and order far surpassed any rumors or expectations she had. It's a vivid description of being completely overcome by wonder, a state of being utterly breathless and without a response due to profound surprise and admiration, as also seen in [Joshua 5:1](/joshua/5-1 "Joshua 5:1 - Hearts Melted with Fear") where the hearts of the Amorite kings "melted, neither was there spirit in them any more" due to fear.

**Why was the Queen of Sheba's visit so significant for Solomon's reign?**

Answer: The Queen of Sheba's visit was highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it served as a dramatic, external validation of God's promises to Solomon regarding unparalleled wisdom, riches, and honor ([1 Kings 3:12-13](/1_kings/3-12 "1 Kings 3:12-13 - God's Promise to Solomon")). Her journey from a distant land, specifically to test Solomon's wisdom, and her subsequent admission that "the half was not told me" ([1 Kings 10:7](/1_kings/10-7 "1 Kings 10:7 - The Half Was Not Told Me")) confirmed that Solomon's fame and glory were not exaggerated but divinely granted. Secondly, her visit demonstrated the international reach and influence of Solomon's kingdom, solidifying its reputation as a center of wisdom and prosperity in the ancient world. It underscored the peace and stability of his reign, allowing for such diplomatic and intellectual exchanges. Finally, her awe, particularly at Solomon's "ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD," highlighted that the source of Solomon's wisdom and glory was rooted in his devotion to the God of Israel, thus serving as a powerful testimony to the nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The overwhelming glory of King Solomon, which left the Queen of Sheba breathless, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the infinitely greater glory of Jesus Christ. While Solomon's wisdom, wealth, and orderly kingdom were impressive earthly manifestations of divine blessing, they were but shadows of the ultimate reality found in Christ. Jesus Himself declared, "a greater than Solomon is here" ([Matthew 12:42](/matthew/12-42 "Matthew 12:42 - A Greater Than Solomon")), indicating that all the wisdom, splendor, and divine presence that astonished the Queen find their perfect and eternal embodiment in Him. In Christ "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - In Christ are Hidden All Treasures of Wisdom")), surpassing Solomon's intellectual prowess. His kingdom is not of this world, yet it is an eternal kingdom that will never end ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - His Kingdom Will Never End")), built on righteousness and peace, not material wealth. Furthermore, while the Queen was impressed by Solomon's ascent to the Temple, Christ Himself is the ultimate Temple, the dwelling place of God among humanity ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Destroy This Temple and I Will Rebuild It")), through whom we have access to the Father. The awe inspired by Solomon's earthly reign points to the far deeper, soul-shaking wonder and worship due to Jesus, who is the very wisdom of God ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")) and the effulgence of God's glory ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - The Radiance of God's Glory")). If Solomon's glory took one's breath away, how much more should the glory of Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, lead us to fall down in worship, utterly overcome by His majesty and grace!

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Chronicles 26:16

To Shuppim and Hosah [the lot came forth] westward, with the gate Shallecheth, by the causeway of the going up, ward against ward.

1 Chronicles 9:18

Who hitherto [waited] in the king's gate eastward: they [were] porters in the companies of the children of Levi.

2 Kings 16:18

And the covert for the sabbath that they had built in the house, and the king's entry without, turned he from the house of the LORD for the king of Assyria.

2 Chronicles 9:4

And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel; his cupbearers also, and their apparel; and his ascent by which he went up into the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her.

1 Kings 4:22

And Solomon's provision for one day was thirty measures of fine flour, and threescore measures of meal,

1 Kings 4:23

Ten fat oxen, and twenty oxen out of the pastures, and an hundred sheep, beside harts, and roebucks, and fallowdeer, and fatted fowl.

Ezekiel 46:2

And the prince shall enter by the way of the porch of [that] gate without, and shall stand by the post of the gate, and the priests shall prepare his burnt offering and his peace offerings, and he shall worship at the threshold of the gate: then he shall go forth; but the gate shall not be shut until the evening.